AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon have teamed up to eliminate dead zones

AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon have agreed to work together under the new contract which aims to eliminate wireless networks in the US. The deal was announced today as a “virtual deal,” but when completed it will see the three carriers combine their ground-up infrastructure to expand rural coverage.

The goal is to create “an efficient and diverse ecosystem of wireless and satellite products and services,” though the details of how this will be achieved are unclear. There is also mention of a business that is developing a level of connectivity for customers and satellite users, investing in satellite-based, direct-to-device (D2D) technology to bridge connectivity gaps and improve connectivity.

In a press release, AT&T said existing contracts with satellite carriers will remain in place under the terms of the proposal. “Our mission is to make communication easy, no matter where you are — on a country highway, at a park, on a boat, or during an emergency,” AT&T CEO John Stankey said in a statement. “By partnering with other providers, we are bringing our combined expertise to help our customers get reliable and ubiquitous access.”

The deal is still in closing stages with negotiations between AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. If this continues, however, the outcome is good for everyone. Customers need access to strong, reliable communications in areas where cell phone coverage is difficult, and satellites can help people in areas where cell phones cannot reach.